Michael Cooper

Michael Cooper, a 22-year-old man from Hartlepool, was sentenced to six years in prison for committing sexual activity with a child and grooming. The case, prosecuted by Cleveland Police, came to light after the victim bravely reported the offences despite threats made against her.

Cooper initiated contact with the underage victim through social media, using a false identity to build trust and groom her over time. He was fully aware of her age, as she was under 16, and even requested proof of her age by asking her to send a birth certificate. Despite knowing the illegality of his actions, he proceeded to engage in sexual activity with her, becoming aggressive during encounters and threatening to grab her hair and choke her if she disclosed what had occurred.

Cooper explicitly warned the victim that he would face trouble if she told anyone about their interactions, aiming to ensure her silence. He faced 16 charges related to sexual activity with a child and grooming when he appeared before Teesside Crown Court. The court imposed a six-year custodial sentence, alongside a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and placement on the sex offenders’ register.

Temporary Detective Sergeant Sarah Blades of Hartlepool CID commended the victim's courage in coming forward, stating that her report provided crucial evidence to secure the conviction and protect others from potential harm. The case underscores the dangers of online grooming and the importance of reporting such abuses.